Proverbs 6:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 6:29
29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 6 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, wisdom, obedience. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 6:29
29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.
Analysis
Can one walk on hot coals without scorching his feet? Again, rhetorical question expecting negative answer. Walking on coals guarantees burning. Likewise, approaching adultery guarantees harm. The Hebrew 'gechaliym' (hot coals) and 'kavah' (scorch/burn) emphasize certain injury. These sequential questions (v.27-29) hammer home the point: sexual sin's consequences are inevitable, not possible to avoid while persisting in sin.
Historical Context
Fire-walking in ancient Near Eastern religious practices often resulted in burns unless practitioners achieved altered states or took precautions. The proverb assumes normal physics: hot coals burn feet. Similarly, moral laws operate predictably - violate them, suffer consequences. Modern culture sometimes pretends sin's consequences are avoidable through sophistication or technology, but moral reality persists.
Reflection
- What rationalizations tell you that you can walk on moral 'hot coals' without being burned?
- How does recognizing sin's inevitable consequences affect your evaluation of temptation?
- What burned 'feet' (consequences) have you or others experienced from sins thought controllable?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 7:1